Chapter 3

This opening remark was indeed quite awkward, and it was far beyond Hua Xiongmao's expectations. The shopkeeper was unaware that the two had almost come to blows moments earlier; he smiled and said, "So this esteemed guest knows Hua the scholar." After saying this, he quickly led Chen Ke to the table next to Hua Xiongmao, asking, "What food and drink would the esteemed guest like?"

What I dislike the most are the pretentious foreigners. After holding back for a while, Hua Xiongmao finally expressed what he wanted to say

Chen Ke looked at the two revolutionary predecessors in front of him, deeply pained for the state of the nation, and felt quite moved. As a time traveler, Chen Ke could calmly articulate certain matters, but it was only when discussing the Russo-Japanese War that he truly felt the ongoing conflict in Northeast China, where the Chinese people were being brutally killed by the Japanese and Russians. Suddenly, a rage emerged within him that he had not anticipated. This was not the kind of anger one feels while reading history books, which is more rooted in shame. As a time traveler, Chen Ke could calmly articulate certain matters, but it was only when discussing the Russo-Japanese War that he truly felt the ongoing conflict in Northeast China, where the Chinese people were being brutally killed by the Japanese and Russians. Suddenly, a rage emerged within him that he had not anticipated. This was not the kind of anger one feels while reading history books, which is more rooted in shame. The anger he felt now was a rage that could only be experienced in this era. Unconsciously, Chen Ke had already clenched his fists.

In the late Qing Dynasty, the "Revolutionary Party" was not an uncommon presence in Shaoxing. In fact, among radical intellectuals, the "Revolutionary Party" was even somewhat fashionable. The Qing court faced defeat in every battle, leading to a loss of power and national humiliation. Discontent was openly expressed, and the vast majority of intellectuals believed that the world needed change; their only distinction lay in whether they advocated for "revolution" or "reform." Chen Ke's willingness to reveal his identity as a member of the Revolutionary Party was largely due to his understanding of this historical reality. In this agrarian society of the late Qing, the government's influence at the grassroots level was virtually nonexistent. Even if Hua Xiongmao reported to the authorities without solid evidence, no one would come to arrest Chen Ke.

"Exactly," Chen Ke replied

Xu Xilin had already approached, speaking a few words in Shaoxing dialect to the leader. The man clearly did not pay attention, as he walked straight towards Chen Ke. Chen Ke did not know the man's background, but he had come with the ruffians whom Chen Ke had beaten up yesterday. Coupled with the earlier roar, this person could not possibly be here to present flowers or pay respects. Chen Ke instinctively began to be on guard; getting beaten up would still hurt.

Chen Ke replied in a low voice: "The few people behind you are attempting to rob us. Let us reason this out. As for smuggling, we can settle it with our fists. I see that you possess considerable skill; I trust you are not the type to cling on like a petty thief, are you"

Where do you fake foreign devils come from, daring to act wildly in Shaoxing

Brother Chen, Mr. Xu just mentioned that you will visit him tomorrow and also invited me to join. Let us, as brothers, resolve our conflicts. I see that you also practice martial arts, so we can discuss matters ourselves without putting Mr. Xu in a difficult position

Hua Xiongmao initially wore a look of confusion on his face, but suddenly he was taken aback, staring in astonishment at Chen Ke. Chen Ke did not shy away from Hua Xiongmao's gaze, his sharp eyes fixed intently on Hua Xiongmao's eyes

The person opposite, upon seeing Chen Ke's movements, sneered fiercely and said, "Oh, still a practitioner of the martial arts. My grandfather is the martial champion Hua Xiongmao. Do you still wish to fight with me?"

Exactly

"Brother Hua, let's drink." Chen Ke raised his wine bowl, and this time Hua Xiong did not refuse; he also lifted his wine bowl to clink it with Chen Ke's. "Brother Chen, please."

At this moment, Xu Xilin quickly positioned himself between the two, speaking something in the local dialect of Shaoxing. Hua Xiongmao also responded in Shaoxing dialect. Although his tone was fierce, Chen Ke could clearly sense that Hua Xiongmao's momentum had weakened significantly.

Upon hearing this, Qiu Jin displayed a look of surprise on her face. Such a confident attitude was indeed rare. Qiu Jin eagerly asked, "Wenqing, what is your perspective on the recent Russo-Japanese War?" After Qiu Jin spoke, Xu Xilin suddenly raised his head, waiting for Chen Ke to respond.

Chen Ke was pondering how to speak when he heard Xu Xilin's family come in to report, "Young Master, Scholar Hua requests an audience." Chen Ke momentarily faltered, exhibiting the unique feeling of someone who wishes to speak but is inevitably interrupted, a sense of "unfinished business".

Can Xu Xilin and Qiu Jin become steadfast communist fighters? Regarding this outcome, Chen Ke is not optimistic at all. With this thought, Chen Ke became much more clear-headed, and his emotions were far from the excitement he had just felt. He suddenly recalled that according to the history of that time, Xu Xilin and Qiu Jin were at most part of the "united front". If he could lead the revolution to achieve some success, with the changes in the revolutionary process, could the two of them continue to be part of the "united front" in the future?

Hua Xiongmao waved his hand, and the shopkeeper turned and left

After saying this, Xu Xilin and Qiu Jin fell silent. After a long while, Qiu Jin finally asked, "Wenqing, where did you get this information? Why is America lending money to Japan?"

Early the next morning, Chen Ke got up. Having returned to this era, with no electricity at night, his living habits naturally reverted to the traditional routine of rising with the sun and resting at sunset. He glanced at his watch; it was just past 5 o'clock, and the sky outside had already brightened. Chen Ke did not have the habit of lingering in bed; once he woke up, he got up.

Hua Xiongmao called out something, but after a few reprimands from Qiu Jin, he fell silent. Although he was very tempted to turn around and see what was happening, Chen Ke ultimately resisted this impulse, deciding that it was best to avoid unnecessary trouble.

The shopkeeper glanced and said, "Forty-two wen." After Chen Ke sat down, he took out his glasses case, which contained his money pouch, and counted out the money to hand over to the shopkeeper. The shopkeeper then asked Hua Xiongmao, "Scholar Hua, do you need any more food or drink?"

Suddenly, Chen Ke felt a sense of having "grown up"

Chen Ke glanced at Xu Xilin and then replied: "The United States provided war loans to Japan. Japan used this money as military funding to fight against Russia. Therefore, in this battle, Russia could lose, and at most, it would not have to cede territory but only pay reparations. However, Japan cannot afford to lose; if it does, it will find it difficult to recover. What Japan aims to seize is ownership in the Northeast. After defeating Russia's military power in the Far East, Japan can leverage this victory, using military strength as a backing to plunder interests in Northeast China. Thus, the war would yield dividends. If Russia loses, it would only need to allow Japan to have privileges in Northeast China. It cannot possibly cede territory or pay reparations."

Chen Ke observed the change in Hua Xiongmao's attitude and felt somewhat curious about this martial examination candidate. He asked, "Brother Hua, why do you dislike international students? Is it because most of them are just pretentious foreigners?"

Hua Xiong did not even touch his wine bowl, and Chen Ke was not concerned; he took a sip of wine and continued eating.

"Would this esteemed guest like to have some wine?" The innkeeper, in his fifties, was dressed in a long gown. His face, marked by age spots, was full of wrinkles, and he wore a melon-shaped cap. A grizzled braid hung neatly down his back, giving him a clean and tidy appearance

One of Chen Ke's hobbies before his time travel was practicing martial arts, often sparring with a group of friends who had served in the military and later became criminal police officers. After his time travel, he discovered some changes in himself; at the very least, his body had become significantly stronger. It was thanks to this body that he was able to travel from Henan to Anhui, a journey of considerable distance in unfamiliar territory. The dangers encountered along the way were certainly not simple to articulate. These few ruffians naturally did not take him seriously. Chen Ke had sparred with friends before his time travel and had been hit in the abdomen more than once or twice. The blows he delivered earlier had shaken the internal organs of those ruffians, rendering them unable to rise for quite some time. Now, he only had to face Hua Xiongmao alone. The saying goes, "Many ants can kill an elephant"; as long as Hua Xiongmao had no other helpers, Chen Ke was very confident in his ability to deal with Hua Xiongmao by himself.

I see. Hua Xiongmao let out a sigh, as it seemed he had understood Chen Ke's meaning, and the provocative expression on his face had completely vanished. Hua Xiongmao wanted to say something further, but he could not find the right words, so he repeated once more, "I see."

Xu Xilin quickly sat down and began to browse through the materials. Qiu Jin took out yesterday's manuscript and said, "Wenqing, I carefully reviewed it after returning home yesterday. I do not know much about the situation in Europe; how much do you know about Japan?"

"Tomorrow I will visit Mr. Xu again. I heard from Brother Hua that he will also be going to Mr. Xu's place tomorrow. Why not wait until then to discuss it? I am already quite pleased to be drinking with Brother Hua today; let us not disturb the joy of drinking with those troubling matters." Chen Ke lightly brushed aside the issue concerning Hua Xiongmao. Hua Xiongmao, understanding the hint, did not bring up the topic again.

Hua Xiongmao was taken aback and quickly stepped back. Looking again, Chen Ke had already retracted his fist and stood there. The few ruffians behind Hua Xiongmao began to shout and curse at this point. A dangerously sinister smile appeared on Chen Ke's face, "Is this what it means to smuggle and plot?"

Oh, I see. "There is no fluctuation of emotion in Chen Ke's tone, "I don't like it either.

There were not many people in the room. Hua Xiongmao glanced at Chen Ke a few times before continuing to lower his head and eat. Chen Ke had a good position; he could see Hua Xiongmao on one side and the entrance on the other. Even if a few people suddenly rushed in, Chen Ke would definitely have enough time to grab the stool beside him to defend himself. As he took out a cloth to clean his glasses, the waiter had already brought in a bowl of rice, two dishes, and two bowls of wine on a tray. Once the food was set down, Chen Ke began to eat.

The food was quite delicious, and the braised pork with preserved vegetables was far superior to the 21st-century fattened pork that Chen Ke had tasted. Just as they were enjoying their meal, Hua Xiongmao approached with a wine bowl and sat beside Chen Ke. "Earlier, you mentioned calling him Chen Ke, right?" Hua Xiongmao inquired.

I am Chinese, so naturally I do not believe in any foreign religions; please rest assured on this point, Brother Hua. In fact, I detest foreign religions the most," said Chen Ke.

"Can the clothing and adornments of our ancestors be so easily discarded?" Hua Xiongmao continued to inquire. Given the ferocity of such a question, Hua Xiongmao was certain that Chen Ke would never respond with a jest or evasion.

No, revolution must be carried out step by step. Even if I write about it, it would be of no use. Let me put it this way, Brother Bosun, even if we wanted to go to the Northeast right now to drive out the Japanese and the Russians, could the two of us accomplish that? Moreover, how would we even get to the Northeast? I know that Brother Bosun is wholeheartedly dedicated to saving the country, but saving the country must also have a method... At this point, Chen Kegang was interrupted by Xu Xilin, who said, "As long as it can save China, I, Xu, would not hesitate to sacrifice myself." I know that Brother Bosun is wholeheartedly dedicated to saving the country, but saving the country must also have a method... At this point, Chen Kegang was interrupted by Xu Xilin, who said, "As long as it can save China, I, Xu, would not hesitate to sacrifice myself."

I want to drink wine" Chen Ke replied with a smile

I did not write it," Chen Ke replied

The children looked timidly at Chen Ke, who was dressed in "eccentric attire," while bystanders pointed and whispered from a distance. Most of the people on the street were captivated by Chen Ke. However, he was able to take it all in stride. From Zhengzhou to Shaoxing, being the center of attention had long become a routine, and those seeking trouble were not few. After putting on the sunglasses, Chen Ke appeared somewhat like a "Terminator," and in the eyes of the crowd, there was more "fear" than anything else. This actually reduced the trouble for Chen Ke. After putting on the sunglasses, Chen Ke appeared somewhat like a "Terminator," and in the eyes of the crowd, there was more "fear" than anything else. This actually reduced the trouble for Chen Ke

Chen Ke has read quite a few of Lu Xun's articles. The Shaoxing of 1905 is indeed as he described: the city is not large, there is little industry, and there are a few handicraft workshops. People walk slowly, appearing quite leisurely. This is in stark contrast to the generally unflappable attitude that people pursue in the 21st century. The common folk that Chen Ke observed could easily be made to laugh by trivial matters, and trivial matters could also easily provoke their anger. It seems that the daily life consistently lacks fresh changes, making the people very sensitive to any alterations. The common folk that Chen Ke observed could easily be made to laugh by trivial matters, and trivial matters could also easily provoke their anger. It seems that the daily life consistently lacks fresh changes, making the people very sensitive to any alterations.

The two no longer discussed the matter concerning Chen Ke, and the conversation shifted to the cuisine of Shaoxing. Chen Ke inquired about the situation of the Xianheng Hotel, to which Hua Xiongmao informed him that the hotel had already closed down

Accompanied by increasingly fervent emotions, Chen Ke could hardly restrain himself from revealing his strategy for saving the nation to Xu Xilin and Qiu Jin, who were before him. At that moment, however, a sudden doubt arose in Chen Ke's heart. Looking back at the history of China, it was ultimately the Communist Party that saved the country. The revolutionary program upheld by this organization can be said, without jest, to aim at the eventual destruction of the class to which Xu Xilin and Qiu Jin belonged. If he were to recklessly disclose everything now, merely for his own satisfaction, what would the outcome be? The revolutionary program upheld by this organization can be said, without jest, to aim at the eventual destruction of the class to which Xu Xilin and Qiu Jin belonged. If he were to recklessly disclose everything now, merely for his own satisfaction, what would the outcome be?

After grooming himself, shaving his beard, and checking the items he carried, Chen Ke set out. Shaoxing also had breakfast shops, but unlike Jiangnan, which offered fried dough sticks and similar wheat-based foods, it primarily featured rice and flour dishes. In Chen Ke's impression, the meat zongzi tasted quite good. There were many vendors selling breakfast along the roadside, and Chen Ke bought a meat zongzi, standing there to finish it. As he was going to meet Xu Xilin, Chen Ke took out a tissue to carefully wipe his mouth and hands, casually crumpling the tissue into a ball and tossing it on the ground. The people around him were already paying close attention to Chen Ke, and after witnessing this behavior, many began to whisper among themselves.

I do not feel that way. Having studied abroad, what is there to feel different from others?

After returning to this era, it was the first time someone had scolded Chen Ke in such a manner. Chen Ke was not angry at all; since returning to this time and space, he had felt that his emotions, particularly anger, had been diminished to the extreme. Over the past month, Chen Ke found everything he encountered to be quite novel. Even though he had gradually come to accept this era, he still could not generate genuine anger. How many people in this era truly understood him? Since they were all people who did not understand him, their prejudices, misunderstandings, and hostility held no significance for Chen Ke.

Chen Ke took another sip of wine and then replied, "Of course there are ancestors; without them, how could I exist?"

"To fight, one needs money. Japan is out of money now. What to do? Borrow money," Chen Ke said with a smile. Qiu Jin had a fondness for the Japanese; back in the day, most revolutionaries admired Japan. Chen Ke was aware of this, so he had no choice but to smile. Although he smiled on the outside, Chen Ke resolved to make Qiu Jin understand that Japan was not a good ally.

"You must think it's quite impressive, right?" Hua Xiong said with a grin.

This response was indeed far beyond Hua Xiongmao's expectations, and even more surprising to him was Chen Ke's calm and composed demeanor. Before Hua Xiongmao could continue speaking, Chen Ke had already lifted his wine bowl, saying, "Brother Hua, please."

He slowly strolled to the entrance of the Xu residence, taking less than fifteen minutes. Due to his slow pace, he attracted even more attention from passersby. Chen Ke raised his wrist; it was now eight o'clock in the morning. He wondered whether Xu Xilin had gotten up yet. Just as he was pondering this, he suddenly heard footsteps behind him. Turning around, he saw Qiu Jin standing behind him, greeting, "Wenqing, good morning."

Brother Bosun, what does the Qing Dynasty have to fight with? Now the Russo-Japanese War is breaking out in Northeast China, and the Qing Dynasty actually designates Chinese territory as a battleground for the great powers, while also claiming neutrality. Ha ha. Japan and Russia are fighting fiercely in China for their privileges, and the Qing Dynasty dares to treat this piece of Chinese land as a foreign battleground, while shamelessly declaring neutrality. Is there anything more ridiculous than this in the world?" Chen Ke's words and laughter were squeezed out from between his teeth.

"Where did you borrow the money?" Before Qiu Jin could respond, Xu Xilin asked first

Upon hearing the new title of "Fake Foreign Devil," Chen Ke made a concerted effort to suppress his laughter. Not only was the title amusing, but the person speaking also used Mandarin, or rather, a dialect of Henan that was popular in the official circles during the late Qing Dynasty. Moreover, the pronunciation was incorrect, making it sound quite comical.

Good morning, Sister Qiu. " Chen Ke quickly returned the greeting

Xu Xilin hurriedly stepped forward to block Hua Xiongmao. However, Hua Xiongmao was cursing foully. In the midst of the struggle, Chen Ke loudly asked: "Are you trying to go public or engage in smuggling? Draw the line here"

I see. Chen Ke suddenly realized, "What Brother Hua said is indeed true."

Xu Xilin, upon hearing these words, was already glaring with rage, gritting his teeth as he said, "Losing rights and humiliating the nation, losing rights and humiliating the nation"

Unknowingly, he had been chatting with Xu Xilin and the others for most of the day, and it was already afternoon. Having established a connection with Xu Xilin, Chen Ke felt quite pleased. Since there was nothing to do back at his accommodation, he decided to stroll around Shaoxing. The sun was shining brightly today, and as Chen Ke walked westward, the sunlight illuminated his eyes. Although he knew it was inappropriate, he still took out the polarized resin sunglasses he had bought for 36 yuan from his pocket and put them on. Originally, he was already quite eye-catching, and now he had become the center of attention.

"Brother Chen, do you have any ancestors?" Hua Xiong gritted his teeth and finally asked

Xu Xilin stood up and said, "I will go to greet him." Watching Xu Xilin's figure as he walked out of the hall, Chen Ke couldn't help but think, when did he become so hypocritical? However, his own actions were absolutely correct; revolution requires secrecy. Revolution is not a banquet, nor is it grandiose rhetoric and "free speech" during a drunken revelry. Revolution is revolution; for the ultimate goal, one must pay attention to revolutionary strategy and be able to endure. Yet, his own actions were absolutely correct; revolution requires secrecy. Revolution is not a banquet, nor is it grandiose rhetoric and "free speech" during a drunken revelry. Revolution is revolution; for the ultimate goal, one must pay attention to revolutionary strategy and be able to endure.

Chen Ke observed that the dishes in front of Hua Xiong were quite simple, and there were only two bowls of wine, "Just like this Mr. Hua will suffice"

Haha. You, this fake foreigner, certainly know how to talk. What do you mean by public and private? For me, both public and private are reasonable." Hua Xiong laughed heartily as he spoke. Just as he finished speaking, he felt a strong gust of wind in front of him, and then saw Chen Ke's fist already stopped right in front of his nose

Qiu Jin's expression was one of sorrow and indignation. She said with great emotion: "Today, after hearing the literary youth speak of the war, I realized that it is vastly different from what others say about it. Literary youth, if you truly have a way to save the nation, please do not hesitate to impart your wisdom."

Hua Xiong smiled faintly and said, "Brother Chen, I see you are also from out of town. What brings you to Shaoxing?"

Hua Xiongmao suddenly felt that Chen Ke was simply an incomprehensible existence, but Chen Ke's short hair resembled that of a monk rather than someone who had their braids cut off. He also thought that his own words seemed rather unreasonable. Originally, Hua Xiongmao believed that by provoking Chen Ke with words, Chen Ke would become furious out of embarrassment; unexpectedly, Chen Ke took his words as a joke. This, in turn, made Hua Xiongmao feel embarrassed and angry. Originally, Hua Xiongmao believed that by provoking Chen Ke with words, Chen Ke would become furious out of embarrassment; unexpectedly, Chen Ke took his words as a joke. This, in turn, made Hua Xiongmao feel embarrassed and angry.

In Shaoxing, those caught as adulterers will have their braids cut off. Everyone can tell at a glance what wrong they have done. Hua Xiongmao continued to provoke Chen Ke

"Would you mind if I shared a table with Brother Chen?" Hua Xiongmao suddenly said with a grin. Hua Xiongmao had the face of a handsome man from Jiangnan, with a sharp chin, a nose that was not high but very straight, slender eyes, and skin that was somewhat tanned yet delicate. No matter how one looked at him, he was not someone who would evoke dislike.

With a loud bang, Xu Xilin slammed his fist on the armrest of the chair, the manuscript in his hand already deformed from his grip. After venting his frustration, Xu Xilin immediately noticed that he had nearly torn the manuscript. He quickly unfolded it with a sense of guilt, saying, "Wenqing, I lost my composure. Does your manuscript contain any methods to strengthen China?"

This Shaoxing cannot be stayed in for long, Chen Ke thought to himself. His appearance, demeanor, and the local people were too different. How could he persuade Xu Xilin to hurry to Shanghai?

Chen Ke turned around, his eyes fixed intently on Hua Xiongmao. Hua Xiongmao felt as if he were being stared at by a ferocious beast, rendering him unable to move.

"What do you mean by official smuggling? Please clarify," Hua Xiongmao firmly grasped Xu Xilin and asked loudly

In the end, it was unclear what Xu Xilin had said, as Hua Xiongmao turned to look at the scoundrel. Xu Xilin turned back and said, "Wenqing, you must come to my place early tomorrow."

After wandering for over an hour, I still couldn't find a place. Up ahead by the roadside, there was a shop with the sign "Laiheng Hotel" in four characters. It was actually three tiled houses, with a table for warming wine by the door. Chen Ke casually walked into the hotel, and the young attendant at the entrance looked to be only about ten years old. From his actions, it seemed he was going to welcome Chen Ke into the shop, but upon seeing Chen Ke wearing sunglasses, the young attendant clearly became timid, resulting in an awkward blockage of the door. However, the person who appeared to be the manager inside the counter quickly shouted a couple of curses, prompting the young attendant to run back behind the wine warming table, while the manager came out to greet Chen Ke.

"Damn you!" Hua Xiongmao cursed, "I’m not afraid of smuggling, old man." Just as the words left his mouth, Chen Ke had already leaped forward, and Hua Xiongmao quickly dodged. However, Chen Ke did not stop, heading straight for the group of ruffians. His movements were lightning-fast, and he struck each of the ruffians in the chest with a punch, then swiftly retreated two steps to create distance from the crowd. The ruffians were momentarily bewildered, unsure of what had just happened. Although they staggered back a few steps from the blows, they did not feel much pain. Yet, Chen Ke did not pause, charging at the ruffians again with the same speed, landing punches on their chests, and then retreating again. The ruffians were still confused, and despite being pushed back, they felt little discomfort. They all wanted to shout, but suddenly their bodies felt as if struck by lightning, immobilized in place. Then, they experienced intense pain in their chests, as if something was constricting them, rendering them powerless. Their bodies shrank lower and lower until they curled up on the ground, unable to make a sound from the pain.

Chen Ke smiled, or rather, his face displayed a semblance of a smile, yet his eyes did not reflect the same sentiment. Chen Ke's voice grew deep, and Hua Xiongmao could hear him clearly, while those further away could not. "Which dynasty's ancestors are you referring to? The Song Dynasty? The Ming Dynasty? From the perspective of my Ming Dynasty ancestors, those who wear braids are all traitors, are they not? At the very least, they are subjects of a fallen nation." After finishing his words, Chen Ke's bright gaze fixed intently on Hua Xiongmao. "Which dynasty's ancestors are you referring to? The Song Dynasty? The Ming Dynasty? From the perspective of my Ming Dynasty ancestors, those who wear braids are all traitors, are they not? At the very least, they are subjects of a fallen nation." After finishing his words, Chen Ke's bright gaze fixed intently on Hua Xiongmao.

Since he had arrived in Shaoxing, it would be rather foolish for Chen Ke not to visit the "Xianheng Hotel." However, Chen Ke truly did not know where this Xianheng Hotel was located. After wandering for quite some time, he still did not see any sign of the establishment. When he inquired with passersby, either there was a language barrier, or they shook their heads indicating they were unaware of such a place.

"No problem," Chen Ke replied

"Esteemed guest, please come this way." The shopkeeper hurriedly led Chen Ke into the adjacent room. As soon as Chen Ke stepped through the door, he paused; Shaoxing was indeed a small place. He did not expect that Hua Xiongmao, who had just been on the verge of a fight, was occupying a table there, drinking with his head bowed. Just as Chen Ke was about to turn and leave, Hua Xiongmao had already raised his head. Upon seeing Chen Ke wearing sunglasses, Hua Xiongmao's delicate brows furrowed. Chen Ke felt quite awkward; they had just avoided a fight, and now it would not be appropriate to start one. However, leaving in such a dejected manner would completely ruin the atmosphere he had hoped to enjoy while drinking. Chen Ke and Hua Xiongmao exchanged glances for a moment. Chen Ke took off his sunglasses and said, "Brother, I am the one from earlier. My name is Chen Ke, and I happened to encounter you while wishing to have a drink here. It truly is fate. Fate indeed."

I think this is just right. Chen Ke felt that there was a strong undertone of hostility in these words, yet he still replied cheerfully.

Haha. Seeing Chen Ke's embarrassed expression, Qiu Jin laughed and said, "Let's go in first." After speaking, Qiu Jin led Chen Ke through the gate of the Xu family. Qiu Jin and Xu Xilin were cousins, and the servants of the Xu family merely nodded in greeting upon seeing Qiu Jin. The two of them sat down in the back hall. Qiu Jin took out a piece of paper and handed it to Chen Ke. From her sleeve, a watch was faintly visible; this watch was not of a rugged style, and at that moment, it sparkled with a brilliant light on Qiu Jin's slender and strong wrist, feeling completely unobtrusive. Chen Ke glanced at it and then returned his gaze to the paper. It was a promissory note. The gist was that Chen Ke used a watch as collateral to borrow 50 taels of silver from Qiu Jin, with a loan term of two years and no annual interest. After reading the elegantly written note, Chen Ke took out a pen and directly signed his name on it. Qiu Jin glanced at the unsightly handwriting, then at the very ordinary disposable pen from the 21st century, before handing a small package to Chen Ke. Chen Ke opened the small package. Inside, besides forty taels of loose silver, there were also ten strings of copper coins. Chen Ke had no idea about the exchange rate between silver and copper coins at that time, and he did not want to appear foolish, so he directly put the small package into his satchel.

"Why? Does the literary youth not trust me?" Xu Xilin gazed intently at Chen Ke

This was indeed a rather surprising piece of information for Chen Ke. After listening, he thought for a moment and unexpectedly burst into laughter. "I see. Most of those fake foreign devils have their hair parted in the middle, and they do indeed look like they have cut off their braids."

As soon as the handover was completed, Xu Xilin entered the living room. After exchanging greetings, Xu Xilin hurriedly inquired with Chen Ke whether he had brought the new manuscript. Chen Ke took out the remaining manuscripts he had written. This comprised all the works he had produced since arriving in this era. After more than a month of contemplation, it ultimately transformed into an article of over 30,000 words. It was still not fully completed. This comprised all the works he had produced since arriving in this era. After more than a month of contemplation, it ultimately transformed into an article of over 30,000 words. It was still not fully completed

Hua Xiongmao brought his meal over to Chen Ke's table and then continued to ask: "Brother Chen, it seems you have studied abroad."

Brother Bosun, I will definitely come to visit you. Having said that, the two of them clasped their hands in farewell

"Sister Qiu, please don't joke with me," Chen Ke said, his face slightly flushed

Japan. I wonder which aspect Sister Qiu would like to inquire about said Chen Ke

Many lesson plans were created by this group of people said Hua Xiongmao

Chen Ke wore a cold smile on his face, "This is not a secret message. As long as Sister Qiu inquires about the financial markets in Europe and the United States, she will know that Japan has issued bonds four times from 1904 to the present. Those in the know understand that these bonds are war bonds. Japan is currently in a favorable position in the war, and those bonds have appreciated significantly. Europeans have not purchased many Japanese bonds; rather, it is Wall Street in the United States that has made substantial purchases. As for why the United States is buying Japanese war bonds, it is simple: Americans also want to compete for interests in the Northeast. Currently, the British have a strong presence in the Yangtze River basin, as well as in places like Beijing and Tianjin. It is naturally very difficult for the United States to come in and take a share. The Northeast is the region where the United States wants to intervene. However, the Northeast is controlled by Russia, and they need to break the Russians' hold; there is no other way but through war."

In those years in China, foreigners were very enthusiastic about missionary activities in order to support their influence in the country. In conflicts between the followers of foreign religions and other Chinese citizens, foreigners strongly backed the Chinese believers. Various religious incidents emerged one after another. Hua Xiongmao, as a successful candidate in the martial examinations, was already part of the upper echelons of society. It is likely that he was quite dissatisfied with the "privileged class of believers" that emerged relying on foreign power.

There are indeed many watches for literary youths. Should we include the one on your wrist as well?" Qiu Jin asked teasingly